Bugatti Chiron
Bugatti Chiron Quick Overview
- The Chiron is the world’s most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive production super sports car
- With the Chiron, Bugatti has made the best even better
The Chiron is the world’s first production sports car with 1,500 HP
- With torque of 1,600 Nm between 2,000 and 6,000 rpm, the Chiron offers maximum performance with outstanding control in all speed ranges
- Maximum speed: 420 km/h, limited for road travel
- The Chiron is ready for a new world speed record
- Acceleration: from 0 to 100 km/h in less than 2.5 seconds
- The Chiron is limited to a series of 500 units
- Market launch in autumn 201
- Basic price: €2.4 million net
- Advance orders have already been received for one third of the total production
- Unique market position thanks to the unprecedented combination of ultimate performance with exclusive design and comfort
The Chiron embodies Bugatti’s new design language
Molsheim / Geneva, February 29, 2016. Bugatti is celebrating a world premiere at
the Geneva International Motor Show: the French luxury brand is unveiling the Bugatti
Chiron, the most powerful, fastest, most luxurious and most exclusive production
super sports car in the world. The Chiron is the latest generation of the ultimate super
sports car and is a completely new development. The sports car manufacturer from
Molsheim, with its long tradition, has taken the unique features of a modern Bugatti to
a new level and developed a high-performance machine that has become significantly
better in every respect. With a power output of 1,500 HP, unprecedented for
production vehicles, an exceptionally high torque value of 1,600 Nm between 2,000
and 6,000 rpm and a wide variety of technical innovations, the Chiron sets new
standards in every respect. The Chiron is therefore very well-positioned to become the
next world speed record holder and reach a maximum speed significantly above the
record currently held by Bugatti. The manufacturer has limited the maximum speed of
the new car to 420 km/h for road use. The Chiron is to be built at the company’s
headquarters in Molsheim. Only 500 of these exceptional cars are to be produced. The
basic price is €2.4 million net. Currently, advance orders have been received for one
third of the total production run. The first vehicle is due to be delivered to a customer
this autumn.
“It is part of human nature to cross boundaries and set new records – to run 100 m faster
than ever before, to fly even further into space and to enter new realms. This striving is also
our driving force at Bugatti,” said Wolfgang Dürheimer, President of Bugatti Automobiles
S.A.S., at the presentation of the Chiron. “The Chiron is the result of our efforts to make the
best even better.”
With the Chiron, the Bugatti President said that Bugatti had left the dimensions which define
the operations of all market players and had established new paradigms that had previously
not existed. “Bugatti has tested the limits of physics. There is no area where we have not
achieved significant improvements.“
The Bugatti Chiron is the world’s first super sports car to bring 1,500 HP onto the road with a
torque of 1.600 Nm at 2,000 to 6,000 rpm with tremendous effectiveness, extremely high
safety levels and unprecedented comfort.
This is the result of the legendary and unique eight-litre W16 engine that has been newly
developed by Bugatti. In combination with the four new, larger turbochargers that are
controlled by the Bugatti two-stage turbocharging, an innovation that Bugatti is introducing,
and a large number of other technical refinements and innovations, maximum performance is
available constantly and can be easily controlled at all speeds. In its Top Speed mode, the
car reaches the maximum speed of 420 km/h, limited for road use – however, this is by no
means the end of the road for the Bugatti Chiron.
With the new carbon fibre monocoque, a newly designed adaptive chassis, tyres developed
especially for Bugatti and other innovative technologies, the Chiron is not only a champion in
terms of maximum acceleration but is, for the first time, also an agile, modern Bugatti with
handling that ensures maximum driving pleasure.
The design of the Chiron combines significantly more “beast” with a very high level of
“beauty”. The design language introduced by Bugatti with the Chiron has a significantly more
aggressive tone and does justice to the character of the new super sports car. The designers
have succeeded in reinterpreting Bugatti’s DNA with its distinctive features in a modern
manifestation at the same time as adding new features resulting from the technical demands
of even higher performance. The Chiron remains unmistakably a Bugatti.
Bugatti Chiron : Full review
- Bugatti Chiron : Powertrain
Newly developed W16 engine
1,500 HP was the power target for the Chiron. To achieve this objective, the eight-litre W16
engine which is already well-known to customers and fans was completely redesigned. To
achieve a power boost of 25 percent compared with the predecessor, almost every
component of the engine was considered and redesigned. To compensate for the weight
increase caused by the high power output, greater use is made of lightweight materials such
as titanium and carbon fibre. For example, the intake tube, the charge air system and the
chain housing are all made of carbon fibre. The weight of the new crankshaft has also been
optimised.
The key factors in the increased power output are higher-performance turbochargers and
duplex fuel injection with 32 injectors. In addition, the charge air cooling system has been
improved. As a result, more than 60,000 litres of air per minute are pumped through the
engine. The coolant pump is also a very high-performance unit. In one minute, it circulates
800 litres of water through the entire engine.
Two-stage turbocharging is the outstanding technical feature of the powertrain
The engine is fitted with four larger, higher-performance turbochargers. They are operated in
a two-stage configuration. The two-stage turbocharging system developed by Bugatti
especially for this car is the outstanding technical feature of the Chiron powertrain. To ensure
maximum acceleration from a standstill without the “turbo lag” feared by sports car drivers,
the Chiron moves off the mark with only two turbochargers in operation. The other two units
are only activated at about 3,800 rpm. As a result, the two-stage turbocharging delivers an
absolutely linear power curve from 2,000 rpm, huge torque in the low engine speed range
and a power output that can be controlled and dosed rather well.
New titanium exhaust system / the main catalytic converters are about six times as large as
the unit fitted to a medium-sized car
Another feature that boosts the power output is the new titanium exhaust system with
reduced exhaust gas back pressure. The system is fully insulated and equipped with four
pre-converters and two main catalytic converters which are considerably larger than their
predecessors. The main converters are about six times as large as the unit fitted to a
medium-sized car. The total active surface of the six converters used for exhaust gas
treatment is about 230,266 m², corresponding to the area of more than 30 soccer fields.
From the catalytic converters, the exhaust gas is fed to a silencer which is extremely light
compared with similar units, weighing only 20 kg. While other manufacturers use stainless
steel, the silencer of the Chiron is made from titanium. The exhaust system is rounded off by
six tailpipes, with four routed to the rear and two pointing downwards.
- Bugatti Chiron : Structure
Highly sophisticated monocoque with extremely high rigidity – LMP1 level
The monocoque of the Chiron is made entirely from carbon fibre and is designed for crash
protection. This newly developed unit is the technically most sophisticated monocoque in its
class. For the first time, the rear end of the car is also made from carbon fibre. If all the fibres
used in the monocoque were laid out end to end, they would stretch nine times the distance
between the earth and the moon. The production of a monocoque takes four weeks.
Thanks to the use of high-performance high-tech materials, the structure of the Chiron at the
rear end is 8 kg lighter than that of its predecessor. The structure is completed by a carbon
fibre underbody manufactured by an innovative sandwich procedure. The sandwich
construction, combined with optimised material use, results in a weight saving of 8 kg
compared with conventional construction. The structure of a sports car is not only the
decisive factor in its weight but also in its rigidity. The Chiron reaches a torsional rigidity of
50,000 Nm per degree and a flexural rigidity of about 0.25 mm per tonne. These are
sensationally good values comparable to those of LMP1 racing cars.
First airbag in the world to shoot through a carbon fibre housing
The new design of the Chiron also meets all the latest worldwide safety standards. The
Chiron boasts the most advanced airbag technology available, with a total of six airbags.
Thanks to Bugatti’s outstanding expertise in airbag design, it proved possible to develop an
airbag that shoots through a carbon fibre housing. This is the case with the dashboard on the
passenger’s side and the seat housings.
Carbon fibre body is an example of sophisticated craftsmanship
The outer skin of the Chiron is made entirely from carbon fibre with perfectly aligned fibres
flowing across the boundaries of neighbouring components without any optical interruption.
This alignment, which is the result of skilful handcrafting and uncompromising attention to
detail, makes the super sports car a real eyecatcher. Only the highest-quality carbon fibre
fabric is used for visible carbon surfaces and six layers of clear coat are applied to ensure a
perfect surface. Only Bugatti is so painstaking in this area.
In addition, some parts of the body require extremely complex production processes, such as
the rear compartment lid or the wings. These do not have any edges or gaps but only
fantastic reflections, which also applies to the side. Bugatti has succeeded in developing a
body part that extends from the A-pillar to the rear in a single piece – an extremely
sophisticated part that is simply beautiful to look at.
Last but not least, the new structure of the Chiron allows an optimised package and even
more comfort. For the first time, it is possible to stow a suitcase with the size of a cabin
trolley approved for air travel (44 litres) in the luggage space of a Bugatti. To provide this
space, the radiator is installed in an inclined position, which also allows a larger cooling
surface.
- Bugatti Chiron : Chassis
For the first time, Bugatti has developed an adaptive chassis – for significantly greater agility
and driving comfort
Bugatti has developed an adaptive chassis for the Chiron. This provides an extremely
dynamic driving experience, very direct response, considerably more agility, precise steering
response, fast cornering and outstanding roadholding even at high cornering speeds – in
other words, the driver has maximum driving pleasure in a very comfortable overall package.
The chassis design and power output of the Chiron ensure extreme controllability even when
driven at the limit. The responses of steering, brakes and the accelerator pedal are direct and
directional stability is outstanding.
New high-performance tyres tested at aerospace facilities
These advantages are the result of a number of different factors such as the electric steering
system, the redesigned front and rear axles and a suspension with newly developed chassis
bushings that are bolted directly to the new monocoque, ensuring optimum reactions to
driver input.
The Chiron is shod with entirely new high-performance tyres, once again developed by
Bugatti together with its strategic tyre partner Michelin. As with the Chiron as a whole there
are no compromises in the case of the tyres. They must transfer maximum torque of up to
5,000 Nm per wheel safely to the road and develop unprecedentedly high lateral guidance
for the high-performance coupe. In addition, they need to be comfortable in city traffic and roll
reliably at high speed. The tremendous forces on the tyre at a speed of 400 km/h show what
is needed. Each single gram of rubber is exposed to centrifugal force of 3,800 g, the result of
acceleration some 3,800 times the force of gravity.
Newly developed high-performance brakes with Formula One technical modules
The world’s fastest production super sports car needs the best brakes in the world. Bugatti
uses special carbon ceramic brake discs made from carbon silicon carbide (CSiC). This
material makes the brake disk lighter at the same time as giving it greater improved corrosion
resistance, performance and durability. In addition, the front and rear brake discs of the
Chiron have a diameter which is 20 mm larger and have become 2 mm thicker, resulting in
more effective heat dissipation by the brake discs and improved performance on the track.
The brake calipers have been entirely newly designed. They are forged from an aluminium
part and then milled using bionic principles. In other words, the design is based on structures
found in nature. The new architecture allows minimum weight to be combined with maximum
rigidity for direct response and very easy dosing of the brakes. Thanks to the new
asymmetrical design, the brake caliper can dissipate an extraordinary amount of braking
energy. It also looks like a small work of art.
The front-axle brake calipers are each fitted with eight titanium pistons, with six titanium
pistons on each caliper of the rear axle. As a special feature of the Bugatti brakes, pistons of
different diameters are fitted to each caliper. This configuration ensures even pressure
distribution over the entire surface of the brake pad, preventing irregular wear. This is
complex racing technology that Bugatti has fitted to a production vehicle.
New adaptive chassis with five driving programs
The adaptive chassis of the Bugatti Chiron has five different driving programs: Lift, EB “Auto”,
Autobahn, Handling und Top Speed. This new control strategy was necessary as a result of
the extremely high power output and especially the huge maximum torque of the Chiron,
which is available over 70 percent of the entire engine speed range. The main actuators
used in the individual driving programs are the chassis height adjustment, the electronically
controlled shock absorbers, the electronically controlled power assisted steering, the fourwheel
drive with “easy to drift” feature, the electronically controlled rear differential, the
aerodynamic control system and the stability and brake control system. All these actuators
ensure that the super sports car is ideally adjusted for the driving mode which has been
selected.
The “Lift” mode is used if the vehicle is to be loaded on a trailer or driven over speed bumps
and entries. When a speed of 50 km an hour is reached, the vehicle automatically switches
to the base EB “Auto” mode for comfortable and agile driving. In this mode, the chassis
height and shock absorbers are automatically controlled as a function of speed and road
conditions.
If the Chiron is driven faster than 180 km/h, the “Autobahn” mode is automatically activated.
In this case, the shock absorber settings are automatically adjusted for comfortable, stable
handling at higher speeds on highways. In the “Handling” mode, all systems are set for
maximum agility and performance. This mode is recommended for driving on race circuits.
The modes Lift, EB “Auto”, Autobahn and Handling can be activated individually using a
rotary switch on the steering wheel. The maximum speed in the “’Auto”, “Autobahn” and
“Handling” modes is 380 km/h.
To reach higher speeds, the driver can activate the “Top Speed” mode, which allows speeds
of up to 420 km/h and is activated by a second, separate ignition key. The so-called Speed
Key is also a feature of the Veyron and is used by Bugatti to underline the special nature of
driving up to top speed. By turning this key, the driver consciously opts for this mode, which
is then only enabled by the vehicle if all the relevant systems give the green light. “Safety
first” remains Bugatti’s motto.
- Bugatti Chiron : Aerodynamics
Intelligent air intake management significantly improves aerodynamic properties as well as
enhancing vehicle cooling
Aerodynamics and cooling are extremely important, especially in the super sports car sector.
The Chiron is a largely enclosed vehicle designed to obtain the best possible aerodynamic
properties. For this reason, air flow through the vehicle for cooling presents an enormous
challenge. This internal combustion engine with a power output of 1,500 HP can generate
more than 3,000 HP of heat which needs to be dissipated.
The air intake management system of the Chiron is a highly sophisticated system that
represents an engineering masterpiece. In order to ensure lower drag, the effective drag
area was reduced and designed in such a way that turbulence as a result of rotating wheels
is avoided. The remaining exposed area at the front of the vehicle is used in a targeted way
to guide the oncoming air through and around the car. Components which play a key role
here are the air curtain, the aerodynamic front splitter, the front air intakes for the cooling of
brakes, water and air conditioning, the air intakes of the oil cooler and the engine air inlets on
the sides as well as the continuous trailing edge on the rear of the vehicle.
Newly developed heat shield for very-high-efficiency brake cooling
Three air inflows on each side of the car are used for brake cooling, guiding cooling air
through the wheel rim. For this purpose, Bugatti has developed an extremely sophisticated
heat shield, for which a patent application has been filed. This shield guides hot air through
the brakes to the exterior, providing extremely effective brake cooling.
The level underbody of the Chiron is equipped with special air guides in the form of rails,
called strakes, and active front diffusers. Air outlets for the main radiator are also installed at
the front. In the central section of the underbody, NACA ducts scoop air into the interior to
cool the powertrain; other air intakes at the rear provide cooling for the rear brakes.
Active aerodynamics system is a unique combination of performance-defining features
Apart from the passive aerodynamic features already mentioned, the Chiron also has an
active aerodynamics system. This is a uniquely sophisticated combination of performancedefining
features including the hydraulic diffuser flap with optimised geometry on the front
axle to ensure lower drag and improved brake cooling, the adaptive chassis which allows
different ground clearances to be set and the active air brake.
The adaptive rear spoiler of the Bugatti is unique. On the Chiron, the spoiler can adopt four
positions – completely retracted, slightly extended (the position for the Top Speed mode),
completely extended (for the Handling and Autobahn modes, with appropriately adapted
angles) and also tilted forwards in the air brake position. The level and angle of the wing are
adjusted fully automatically in line with the driving situation. The highly efficient design of the
rear wing means that an additional spoiler is not required, resulting in lower drag and weight
savings.
Highest-performance, most intelligent cooling system in sports car sector
The Chiron is equipped with two cooling water loops, a high-temperature loop for engine
cooling and a low-temperature loop for charge air cooling. The high-temperature loop
features one main and two auxiliary radiators with 37 litres of cooling water which are
pumped through the entire cooling loop in about three seconds. The low-temperature loop
designed by Bugatti to ensure outstanding everyday practicality for its super sports cars is
equipped with one radiator and has a water volume of 12 litres. This loop prevents the
charge air from overheating in stop-and-go driving and urban traffic.
If the three coolers for engine oil, transmission oil and rear axle differential oil are included,
together with the two water/air heat exchangers and the hydraulic oil cooler, the cooling
system of the Chiron has a total of 10 radiators and is the most sophisticated and highest performance cooling system installed on a sports car.
- Bugatti Chiron : Electrical systems and electronics
The world’s most intelligent super sports car with a high degree of future orientation
The Chiron is the world’s most intelligent production super sports car. It creates ideal
conditions for the driver to concentrate fully on piloting a high-performance vehicle and
enjoying his emotions without any distractions whatsoever. No fewer than 50 controllers
manage the engine and transmission, the chassis components, the air conditioning and
comfort functions. And of course, all these systems continue to perform reliably even at
speeds significantly over 400 km/h.
New developments on the Chiron include the complex LED lighting system, the infotainment
system with instrument cluster and the air conditioning control unit. To implement special
lighting scenarios such as the welcome ceremony, the vehicle lighting system is designed for
individual digital control.
The flattest full-LED projector headlamps in the automobile sector
To accentuate the unique “eight-eye” design of the front end, Bugatti has equipped the
Chiron with the flattest full-LED projector headlamps ever fitted to a car, with a height of only
90 mm. Each headlamp has its own controller to operate the LEDs installed behind the main lenses which are mounted on delicate aluminium arms. The eight outer lighting squares
consist of light conductors providing sidelight and daytime running light functions. Even in the
case of the headlamps, Bugatti has not attempted to save high-quality materials, using
carbon fibre for the light trims.
Newly developed adaptive instrument cluster
The instrument cluster in the cockpit is also a completely new development by Bugatti. The
cluster, installed in an aluminium housing, consists of three compact displays surrounding
the analogue speedometer. High-resolution TFT displays are positioned to the left and right
of the speedometer with a smaller flat IPS display located below. The high-resolution
graphics are extremely sharp. The principle is that the driver should be offered only the
information that is necessary in view of the driving mode that is active. The faster the Chiron
is driven, the simpler the presentation becomes. For example, infotainment data are hidden
and the main focus is on the driving data that the driver actually needs to explore the full
potential of this super sports car – safely and extremely enjoyably.
Central console with highly sophisticated design
The Chiron is home to what is probably the most aesthetically pleasing and narrowest central
console used in the automobile sector. The console features the selector lever and four
round air conditioning switches with indicators under glass hoods which can easily be seen
not only from the driver’s seat but also by the passenger. On the first control level, the four
rotary switches operate the air distribution, blower, temperature and seat heating functions.
But that is not all. In line with the principle that a huge variety of functions should be
presented in a way which is clear and allows intuitive operation, the second level of each
indicator provides additional functions for the monitoring of driving performance data, also
allowing individual programming, if the driver so desires. There are four different settings for
the definition of different functions: the Icon mode, the Performance mode, the Cruise mode
and the Classic mode.
High-performance high-end sound system makes the Chiron the world’s fastest concert hall
The audio system installed on the Chiron is simply sensational. Developed exclusively for
Bugatti by the “accuton” brand, well-known for its high-end equipment, this is the most
luxurious sound system available on a super sports car. Audio system connoisseurs will
appreciate the use of a one-carat diamond membrane in each of the four tweeters, delivering
a crystal-clear sound. In addition, the world’s first mid-range speaker with two separate
membrane zones is fitted to the Chiron. In combination with other sophisticated features, the
result is a sound platform that makes the Chiron the world’s fastest concert hall. It is almost
unsurprising that the system can even be adjusted for different interior materials. It is even
possible to take different types of leather into consideration. In the final resort, the occupants
of a Chiron experience music not as if they were in front of the stage but as if they were
sitting in the midst of the orchestra.
- Bugatti Chiron : Exterior
The new design language is characterised by extremely generous surfaces, which are
demarcated by pronounced lines in the case of the Chiron. The accentuated lines of the
Chiron were inspired by the legendary Bugatti Type 57SC Atlantic, the most famous creation
of Jean Bugatti, design genius and son of the founder Ettore.
Design features have a technical background
The most distinctive design features of the Chiron are the Bugatti horseshoe with the eighteyed
front end, the C-bar on the side (also known as the “Bugatti line”), which is also used as
a design element in the interior, the central fin as a reminiscence of the central seam on the
Bugatti Atlantic, which extends over the entire vehicle to the rear, and the redesigned rear
end with the newly developed rear light, which is unique in the automobile industry and gives
the Chiron its distinctive Bugatti signature.
Most of these elements have a technical background and have been designed to fully
accentuate the growing performance requirements of the Chiron.
The Chiron is higher and wider than its predecessor, which allows for more space, especially
in the footwell, and improved ergonomics. The headroom has been increased by 12 mm.
The wider front end of the vehicle is highlighted by the new eight-eye face. Apart from the
lamp housings, the front end features a highly effective air inlet for the cooling of the front
wheels and brakes and therefore performs an important aerodynamic function.
Expertly handcrafted trim skilfully sets the scene for the side line
That also applies to the Bugatti line, which not only emphatically defines the sides of the
exterior but is also conspicuous in the interior. The exterior line impressively reflects Bugatti’s
design ethos which ideally calls for shapes and lines to be derived from technical
requirements. This is not only a beautiful styling line. Its positioning was defined by the need
to improve engine ventilation and ventilation performance in general at this point. Behind the
A-pillar a very useful fresh air flow enters the vehicle at the level of the window. The air is
absorbed by the C-bar, guided through to the wheel arch and leaves the car via the rear.
A trim strip with a length of 2.80 metres effectively sets the scene for the side line. This strip
is made from a special aluminium alloy with hand polishing to ensure a high gloss. If the
customer so wishes, the strip is available in a number of different colours. It is embedded
both in the side and in the door. The interaction of an aluminium trim strip of this size and
shape and the carbon fibre outer skin poses a special challenge, which Bugatti has mastered
impressively. This detail alone already demonstrates Bugatti’s ability to facilitate the
impossible.
Newly developed rear end with innovative rear light creates the distinctive signature of the
Chiron
The rear with its all-round trailing edge is the clearest example of form following performance
in the design of the Chiron. The rear is shaped to ensure lower drag and to meet the
requirements posed by the high power output, the new top speed and heat dissipation from
the rear end. The suction effect behind the rear end allows the extraction of hot air collecting
in the engine compartment.
Although this rear design is not entirely new in the sports car sector, the combined rear,
brake, reversing and indicator light certainly is. The designers developed this homogeneous
light strip with a length of 1.60 metres extending over the entire rear without any interruptions
with a view to making a purist statement emphasising the width of the Chiron. The rear light
strip is the unmistakable signature and unique feature of this Bugatti. The Chiron is the first
and only production car to feature a rear light of this type. The light strip is only a few
millimetres high and is surrounded by a bar machined from solid aluminium. 82 Super RED
LED lamps ensure that all road-users can immediately see that a Bugatti Chiron is driving
ahead of them.
Significantly more “beast” combined with a high level of “beauty”
The lines of the new car show that the balance between “beauty” and “beast” needed in a
modern Bugatti has been significantly shifted in the direction of aggression in the case of the
new Chiron. This can be seen from the considerably more dynamic sideline, the central fin
that gives an impression of acceleration, the elongated rear wings and the more dynamic
angle of attack.
A two-tone colour scheme is a classic element in Bugatti’s design DNA. However, the
boundary between the two colours does not run across components in the case of the Chiron
but follows the edges of components in a highly technical way. In the past, more than 50
percent of Veyron customers chose a two-tone colour scheme for their car. Similar
developments are expected in the case of the Chiron although the new model will still look
extremely seductive and impressive in a single-tone scheme.
At a standstill, the Chiron already has emphatic proportions, not least as a result of its larger
wheels.
The fact that the vehicle is wider also enhances the volume of the powerful wings, allowing
the Chiron to flex its muscles. This impression is enhanced by the fact that the doors ahead
of the rear wings closely follow the shoulders like a bespoke suit.
The rear spoiler (the “air brake”) emphatically accentuates the unparalleled performance
generated by the rear-mounted powerplant of the Bugatti. The air brake extends over the full
width of the vehicle, making a statement that is both stylistic and technical.
100 percent authentic materials
Bugatti continues to practise its philosophy of “What you see is what you get“ consistently
with the Chiron. This vehicle is constructed in every respect from authentic materials. Parts
that look like carbon fibre, aluminium or leather are really made from these materials. All the
exterior trim parts, wherever they are installed, are made from aluminium of consistently high
grades and quality with an anodised effect. The horseshoe at the front is made from a single
part, with the degree of deformation of the edges reaching the limits of technical feasibility.
On average, the thickness of the material is no more than 1.5 mm. A special, hand-polished
alloy is used to obtain a high gloss finish.
The grille inside the horseshoe also explores the limits of feasibility. The lightweight
aluminium structure used for the grille of the Chiron has a 3-D effect providing optical depth.
However, the grille not only looks good but also has extremely high impact strength as a
result of its complex multi-stage production process.
Newly designed front emblem crafted from solid 970 fine silver and enamel
The front emblem on the radiator grille, also known as the Bugatti “Macaron“, is a real gem.
This symbol is a completely new design which is one third larger than its predecessor. The
Bugatti oval is the only component of the Chiron that has not been subjected to the
painstaking weight saving programme that is normal practice in the development of a super
sports car. This part is allowed to be heavy. The eyecatcher, with a circumference of 26 cm,
consists of solid 970 fine silver and enamel and has a total weight of 155 g, including 140 g
of silver. Previously, the emblem had 2-D optics, with an art deco logo and a hint of shadow,
following examples from the 1920s. The new emblem is a 3-D design creating the effect of
letters hovering over the red enamel. This decorative component can only be produced by a
handcrafting process that is extremely complex and time-consuming. In all, five layers of
enamel are applied in individual processes, followed by baking and hand polishing. Ettore
Bugatti, whose motto was “nothing is too beautiful and nothing is too expensive,” would
certainly have taken pleasure in this example of sheer craftmanship.
- Bugatti Chiron : Interior
Illuminated C-bar in the interior is the longest light conductor in the automobile industry
The interior reflects the stylistic themes of the exterior including the central fin inspired by the
Bugatti Atlantic. This approach ensures a symmetrical layout in the interior.
At the same time, the design theme of the Bugatti line is expressed most strongly in the
interior of the vehicle. The open oval based on a stylised “C”, the initial of Louis Chiron’s
signature, is already a dominant element in the side view of the super sports car and is also
taken up in the passenger compartment as a separating line between the symmetrical units
for the driver and passenger. The C-shaped light strip emerges from the front bonnet into the
passenger compartment as a raised graphic element and merges seamlessly into the
dashboard. From here, it flows over the armrest between the seats to the back wall where it
rises to the roof liner; at the front, it ends at the rear-view mirror. The homogeneously lit,
dimmable light bar is the longest light conductor used in automobiles. This is not the only
superlative as it has a surround that is machined from a single piece of aluminium in a
complex process and is an eyecatcher in itself
The focus is on the pilot
The cockpit layout of the Bugatti Chiron consistently follows functional requirements. In order
to keep the central console as slim as possible and to allow a spacious impression, the
climate control and infotainment systems have been separated. The units on the central
console have independent displays. The selector for the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox is
located in the perfect ergonomic position within easy reach of the driver’s hand. It is
produced from the most exclusive materials available and all aluminium parts are milled from
solid material. Bugatti is the only carmaker to use anodised aluminium for its controls and to
ensure that each individual graphic symbol is illuminated.
Bugatti pilots have all the driving dynamics information they need within their field of vision.
The instruments visible through the steering wheel with its central horseshoe emblem include
the analogue speedometer, the two supplementary digital displays, with the mechanical
speed indicator standing out as a result of its exclusive quality. The speedometer runs up to
the magic figure of 500 km/h (310 mph) and is a feast for the eyes with the exclusive
appearance of a precious Swiss watch.
- Bugatti Chiron : Overall vehicle development
Development and test programme of unprecedented complexity in the super sports car
sector.
No other super sports car of this calibre completes such an exacting and complex test
program as the Chiron. The process starts with design sketches and 1:1 clay models. These
are followed by geometrical drawings showing all interior and exterior surfaces visible to the
customers and taking into consideration all technical and aesthetic requirements and then by
digital mock-models, until prototypes and pre-series vehicles are built. At each stage in the
process, the Chiron is subjected to a large number of tests, checks and correction loops of
the type which are normally only used in the development of mass-produced models.
More than 30 test vehicles were or still are in use, including six vehicles alone used to ensure
compliance with worldwide safety standards and legislation. Two quality and type-testing
vehicles are also on the roads. No fewer than 10 pre-series vehicles are being built to lay the
foundations for the perfect start of series production in September 2016.
The Chiron has spent more than 300 hours in the wind tunnel, completed more than 500,000
test kilometres and used up more than 200 sets of tyres.
Apart from comprehensive simulations, the Chiron has completed a large number of tests on
test rigs. Some of these, including the engine test bench, had to be redesigned and built
especially for the Chiron as existing facilities were inadequate to simulate the loads on a
1,500 HP unit or were simply too small for the new W16 engine. In addition, the Chiron was
tested on test rigs operated by the aerospace industry or the armed forces as only these test
facilities were adequate for reaching and verifying the performance data that were aimed for.
The Chiron meets the most exacting quality requirements
The quality inspectors of the Volkswagen Group will not grant the Chiron any exceptions
whatsoever as a result of the small numbers to be produced. Like any other modern
Volkswagen Group model, the Chiron must face the most stringent quality requirements
possible. As a result, Chiron owners can look forward to a production super sports car of the
very highest quality.
Bugatti Chiron : Wallpapers
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